Playwriting is a challenging practicum that
expects students to function as scholarly
artists in a workshop environment.  The 
first goal of the class is to open your
imaginations and to get you writing on a
regular, disciplined basis.  The second goal
is to provide you with a few basics about
the craft of writing and dramatic structure.
To accomplish both of these objectives, we
need to establish a creative, safe and open environment.

 
Here are the ground-rules:

Have Fun.  Writing assignments are not tests, 
    but puzzles, journeys and explorations.
Be supportive of each other’s work and the angst 
    that produced it.
Park your ego at the door.  If you want to write
   for the theater, then you are participating
    in a collective process that includes
   the audience.  If you can’t face criticism--
   keep a journal,  don’t write plays!!!

REQUIREMENTS

Attendance at all sessions with writing
   assignments completed.

Read the assigned plays and be prepared
   to discuss and analyze them.

Get a heavy-duty 3 ring binder and place ALL work in it.  This is to be submitted at the end of the semester.

Completion of a new One-Act Play to be read publicly.  You will need to find actors to READ not ACT your play.  This is not a directing or production course.  All emphasis should be on writing.
 
ASSIGNED READING

Ibsen  A Doll’s House
Chekhov The Three Sisters
Miller Death of a Salesman
Williams The Glass Menagerie
Brecht The Caucasian Chalk Circle